Awards and accolades for Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram vehicles drove customers to dealer showrooms resulting in improved sales and market share in December. Chrysler Group today reported December sales increased 36 percent compared with November 2009 and 20 of 24 vehicles posted sales increases for the same time period.

Chrysler Group received multiple accolades in December, including Motor Trend's Truck of the Year award for the all-new 2010 Ram Heavy Duty pickup truck that is arriving in dealer showrooms now. In addition:

-- Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon hailed as "Most Significant 4x4 of the Decade" and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon named "Best 4x4 of the Decade" by editors at Four Wheeler Magazine -- Jeep named "Top Domestic Brand" in Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com® 2010 Residual Value Study -- 2010 Ram Power Wagon was named Four Wheeler Magazine's "Pickup Truck of the Year" -- 2010 Ram 1500 was named a "2010 All Star" by Automobile Magazine -- Dodge Challenger was named "Most Satisfying Car" by readers of a prominent consumer magazine -- Jeep Liberty and Dodge Challenger R/T chosen as "Best of 2009" by Gaywheels.com editors -- 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan identified as one of the "Safest Vehicles under $30,000" by NADAguides.com

"As we kick off the new year, Chrysler Group continues to build momentum with some of the best products in the marketplace, and we are enthusiastic about the new products coming this year," said Fred Diaz, President and Chief Executive Officer-Ram Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, Chrysler Group LLC. "Our great Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram products are being recognized by opinion leaders in the industry, and consumers are responding in a positive way. In 2010 the company will continue to earn the trust of consumers with exciting, high-quality vehicles that are priced right."

Chrysler Group reported total U.S. sales for December of 86,523 units. Sales increased 36 percent month-over-month and declined 4 percent year-over-year. The company finished the year with 931,402 units sold, a decline of 36 percent compared with 2008. Inventory is down 55 percent compared with December 2008, with 178,538 units in inventory, representing a 58-day supply. Overall industry figures for November are projected to come in at an estimated 11.3 million SAAR.

Chrysler Group today announced "Zero Percent Financing" for almost all 2010 model year vehicles and the expansion of its "Invest in America" partnership with more than 90 million Credit Union members in the United States. The Credit Union member-preferred pricing program has been expanded to include all 2010 model year vehicles. The incentives announced today are valid through March 1, 2010.

"Your local Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram dealer has award-winning cars and trucks in stock that just became more affordable," said Steven G. Beahm, Vice President, Sales Operations - Chrysler Group LLC. "Most consumers will qualify for 0 percent financing available through GMAC Financial Services, and we also are offering attractive lease rates on some of our best-selling vehicles."

Starting today, consumers who purchase a Jeep brand vehicle can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months through GMAC Financial Services or consumer cash of up $4,000. Current Jeep owners who purchase a Jeep Liberty, Commander or Grand Cherokee also qualify for $500 owner loyalty bonus cash.

Dodge Car Brand

Beginning today, consumers purchasing Dodge brand vehicles can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent financing for 72 months through GMAC Financial Services or consumer cash of up $3,000. In addition, consumers who purchase a Dodge Charger can receive "no charge" all-wheel drive. Also, consumers who purchase a Charger can choose a "no charge" HEMI engine in lieu of consumer cash or 0 percent financing.

Ram Truck Brand

Starting today, consumers who purchase a Ram truck can choose 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or financing as low as 1.9 percent for 72 months through GMAC Financial Services or consumer cash of up $3,500.

Leasing

Chrysler Group is offering attractive lease rates on several products, including:

-- Jeep Wrangler Sport two-door 4x4 for $229 per month with approximately $2,800 due at signing -- Dodge Journey SE for $249 per month with approximately $2,800 due at signing -- Chrysler Town & Country LX for $289 per month with approximately $2,900 due at signing -- Ram 1500 Quad Cab ST 4x4 for $299 per month with approximately $2,900 due at signing

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- -- Ford, Lincoln and Mercury December sales up 33 percent versus a year ago; highest sales month since May 2008 -- Ford posts first full-year market share gain since 1995; December marks the 14th time in 15 months that Ford increased retail market share -- Record December sales delivered for Fusion (up 83 percent) and Escape (up 75 percent) ; Fusion sets new full-year sales record (180,671); Escape full-year sales (173,044) second best ever -- Ford's F-Series tops best-seller lists again with December sales of 48,209 (up 16 percent) and full-year sales of 413,625; F-Series has been the best-selling truck in America for 33 years in a row and the best-selling vehicle, car or truck, for 28 years in a row -- New products drive Ford's brand favorability and purchase consideration to record highs

Higher sales in every product category and for every brand propelled Ford to a 33 percent sales increase in December versus a year ago.

Ford cars were up 42 percent, crossovers were up 51 percent, sport utilities were up 33 percent, and trucks and vans were up 18 percent. Among brands, Ford sales were up 37 percent, Lincoln sales were up 16 percent and Mercury sales were up 6 percent.

"Ford's plan is working," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service. "Customer consideration continues to grow for our high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles. In 2010, we will introduce an even higher number of new products, giving customers more reasons to Drive One."

Every consumer metric about the Ford brand - including favorable opinion, consideration, shopping and intention to buy - ended the year at record levels. In fact, favorable opinion is up more than 20 percent from the beginning of the year, and intention to buy Ford increased more than 30 percent.

"People increasingly are discovering that the Ford difference is the strength of our products, particularly our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart technologies and value," said Czubay.

Ford estimates its full-year 2009 U.S. total market share was about 15 percent - about 1 percentage point higher than in 2008. This marks the company's first full-year U.S. market share increase since 1995. Ford also has improved its retail market share 14 times in the last 15 months.

Sales Highlights -- Ford Fusion, recently named Motor Trend's Car of the Year, posted a December sales increase of 83 percent and set new December (18,852) and full-year (180,671) sales records. Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are the most fuel-efficient mid-size sedans in America. -- Ford Taurus sales totaled 7,256 for the month, up 110 percent versus a year ago. Since the introduction of the all-new model in August, Taurus sales are nearly 90 percent higher than a year ago. -- Ford Mustang sales were up 62 percent in December, and Ford Focus sales increased 22 percent. Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ were each up 5 percent. -- Crossover utilities also posted strong sales increases. In 2009, the Ford brand was the top-selling brand of crossovers in the U.S., led by the Ford Escape. Escape set a December sales record (19,156), up 75 percent versus a year ago. For the full year, Escape sales totaled 173,044, the second-best sales year ever. Ford Edge sales were up 59 percent, and Ford Flex sales were up 73 percent. The all-new Lincoln MKT posted its highest sales to date (858). -- Ford's F-Series truck had its best sales month since March 2008. F-Series sales in December were 48,209 (up 16 percent), bringing the full-year total to 413,625. F-Series has been America's best-selling truck for 33 years in a row and America's best-selling vehicle, car or truck, for 28 years in a row. In 2009, F-Series increased its leadership position among full-size pickups with a 4 percentage-point gain in segment share. -- Transit Connect, Ford's new versatile, fuel-efficient small commercial van, had its best sales month (1,992) since August. -- Ford's new EcoBoost engine technology and hybrid vehicles are winning customers, too. December was the best sales month for EcoBoost (1,662), and total EcoBoost sales since introduction now total 4,973. The conquest rate for the Taurus SHO is 60 percent. EcoBoost provides customers up to 20 percent improvement in fuel economy and a 15 percent reduction in emissions versus larger-displacement engines. EcoBoost is standard on the Taurus SHO and available on the Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT. -- December sales of hybrid vehicles totaled 2,843, up 147 percent versus a year ago. Ford hybrid models include the Ford Fusion, Ford Escape, Mercury Milan and Mercury Mariner. For the full year, Ford hybrid sales totaled 33,502, a new record and up 72 percent versus a year ago.

Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.

About Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F)

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 200,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

FORD MOTOR COMPANY DECEMBER 2009 U.S. SALES -------------------------------------------

Mercedes-Benz Posts Highest Sales Month for the Year With 20,059 Vehicles Sold in December

Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned Sets Record SalesMONTVALE, N.J., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported December sales of 20,025 vehicles, its highest monthly volume of the year, bringing the company's total 2009 volume to 190,604 and narrowing the gap versus last year to 15.3 percent.

Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of MBUSA said: "The strong finish to a year marked by challenges on every front, underscores the customer confidence in the Mercedes-Benz brand and the unstinting efforts we have undertaken in partnership with our retail network to provide an unparalleled ownership experience."

The C-Class - the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers - was the volume leader for the year with sales of 52,427 vehicles, a 27.7 percent decrease from last year. The all-new, 9th generation E-Class, launched in late June, bucked the industry sales trend by increasing its volume year-over year by 11.7 percent (43,072 versus last year's 38,576). Rounding out the top three volume lines was the popular M-Class SUV which recorded a 21 percent increase in December, bringing the annual volume to 25,799.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,098 vehicles in December 2009. This boosted the MBCPO year-end total to 71,886 units, an 11.2 percent increase over the annual sales record set last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 12 model lines ranging from the sporty C-Class to the flagship S-Class sedans and CL coupes. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.maybachusa.com

Accredited journalists and editors can access press materials by registering at www.media.mbusa.com and www.media.maybachusa.com.

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced a record breaking sales year as the company sold 216,652 units in 2009, an increase of 15-percent. This breaks the previous sales record of 200,703 units sold in 2006. The also marks a record sales month for December 2009 as the company sold 23,074 units - an increase of 33-percent - versus 17,287 units sold in December 2008.

"December represented another record month for Subaru, capping off the best year in the history of the company, in both sales and market share," said Tim Colbeck, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "I also believe Subaru is well-positioned to continue its success into 2010. We have the right products, marketing and dealer network providing us with a strong foundation for future growth."

"We really owe this tremendous success to both our retailers and employees, who executed the business plans we set in place," said Thomas J. Doll, EVP and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. "Along with our vision and their belief in the Subaru brand, they helped make that vision a reality," Doll continued.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of approximately 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com

Daimler AG Reports a Total of 20,889 Cars Sold for the Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. for December 2009

-- Mercedes-Benz USA Records December Sales of 20,025 - an increase of 8.2% over December 2008 and highest month for 2009 -- smart USA Records 864 Sales in December - an increase of 33% over previous month

NEW YORK, Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Daimler AG (stock exchange abbreviation DAI) today reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division in the U.S. (Mercedes-Benz and smart combined) of 20,889 units, an increase of 0.2 percent compared to December 2008. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported December sales of 20,025 vehicles, its highest monthly volume of the year, bringing the company's total 2009 volume to 190,604 and narrowing the gap versus last year to 15.3 percent.

Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of MBUSA said: "The strong finish to a year marked by challenges on every front, underscores the customer confidence in the Mercedes-Benz brand and the unstinting efforts we have undertaken in partnership with our retail network to provide an unparalleled ownership experience."

The C-Class - the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers - was the volume leader for the year with sales of 52,427 vehicles, a 27.7 percent decrease from last year. The all-new, 9th generation E-Class, launched in late June, bucked the industry sales trend by increasing its volume year-over year by 11.7 percent (43,072 versus last year's 38,576). Rounding out the top three volume lines was the popular M-Class SUV which recorded a 21 percent increase in December, bringing the annual volume to 25,799.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,098 vehicles in December 2009. This boosted the MBCPO year-end total to 71,886 units, an 11.2 percent increase over the annual sales record set last year.

smart USA recorded 864 sales in December 2009. This represents a 33% increase over November 2009. Year-to-date sales total 14,595 units. Since its introduction in the United States, there are nearly 40,000 smart fortwos traveling the roads throughout America. The smart fortwo offers the right balance of power, outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety features, environmental friendliness and excellent value. There are 78 smart centers located in 36 states.

Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.

Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. Sales Summary Through December 2009 -----------------------------------------------------

About DaimlerDaimler AG, Stuttgart, with its businesses Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks, Daimler Financial Services, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Daimler Buses, is a globally leading producer of premium passenger cars and the global market leader of heavy- and medium-duty trucks as well as buses. The Daimler Financial Services division has a broad offering of financial services, including vehicle financing, leasing, insurance and fleet management. Daimler sells its products in nearly all the countries of the world and has production facilities on five continents. The company's founders, Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz, continued to make automotive history following their invention of the automobile in 1886. As an automotive pioneer, Daimler and its employees willingly accept an obligation to act responsibly towards society and the environment and to shape the future of safe and sustainable mobility with groundbreaking technologies and high-quality products. The current brand portfolio includes the world's most valuable automobile brand, Mercedes-Benz, as well as smart, AMG, Maybach, Freightliner, Western Star, Mitsubishi Fuso, Setra, Orion and Thomas Built Buses. The company is listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt, New York and Stuttgart (stock exchange abbreviation DAI). In 2008, the Group sold 2.1 million vehicles and employed a workforce of over 270,000 people; revenue totaled euro 95.9 billion and EBIT amounted to euro 2.7 billion. Daimler is an automotive Group with a commitment to excellence, and aims to achieve sustainable growth and industry-leading profitability.

ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Jan. 5, 2010) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) December sales were up 13.8 percent in the United States, marking the seventh straight month of a year-over-year increase. In the United States, VCNA sold a total of 5,638 vehicles in December.

Sales highlights for December in the United States were the S40 sport sedan and the beautiful C70 retractable hard top convertible. The S40 saw a 41.2 percent increase over December 2008 with 603 (versus 427 in 2008) units sold. The C70's gains were a more modest 3.9 percent with 213 units sold in December versus 205 vehicles for the same time in 2008. The Volvo XC60 has also been a major contributor to Volvo's recent success in America. Sales through December were an impressive 9,262 units in the United States.

For the month of December, Volvo sales in Canada were up an impressive 133 percent with a total of 625 vehicles sold. Contributors to Canada's exceptional December sales were the S40 with 74 units sold versus just 23 units sold in December 2008 and the fun-to-drive C30. In December, 93 C30s were sold compared to just 23 units in December 2008.

Overall in North America (United States and Canada), Volvo has sold 67,975 units in 2009, which represents a 14.6 percent decrease for the same period of 2008*. The XC90 continued to be the strongest seller in both countries, with the U.S. posting 10,757 sales and Canada selling 1,456 units in 2009. The V50 sport wagon in the United States saw an increase of 16.1 percent over 2008 with 2,155 units sold (versus 1,856). In Canada, the S40 sport sedan posted an impressive 11 percent increase for 2009 with 758 units sold versus 683 vehicles in 2008.Another major sales success in 2009 was the introduction of the Volvo Safe + Sound Coverage Plan. A complimentary coverage program, the Safe + Sound Coverage Plan wraps a comprehensive list of benefits into one package. Volvo has combined additional time and mileage limits on warranty repairs and roadside assistance coverage, and has increased wear-item and factory scheduled maintenance coverage. Specifically, it provides:

• 5 years/60,000 miles of New Car Warranty• 5 years/60,000 miles of Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance• 5 years/60,000 miles of Wear and Tear Coverage• 5 years/Unlimited miles of Volvo On Call Roadside Assistance.

The Volvo Safe + Sound Coverage Plan provides best-in-class coverage, provides the lowest cost of luxury ownership (according to IntelliChoice) and has been a major contributor to Volvo's recent sales success. It has been extended through March 2010 and is available on all new vehicles in stock.Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (www.volvocars.com/us) is a subsidiary of Volvo Car Corporation of Gothenburg, Sweden. VCNA provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada.*2008 totals include Mexico; 2009 totals do not.

The Jetta, Volkswagen of America's top selling nameplate, posted strong December results with 10,233 units, a 26.9 percent increase over December 2008. Volkswagen's clean diesel TDI models continue to perform especially well and accounted for over 20 percent of the brands total December sales with 4,378 units.

Volkswagen's eye-catching four door coupe, the CC, performed extremely well once again, posting sales of 3,149 units. Also posting strong December results is Volkswagen's latest iteration of their original pocket rocket, the GTI, which is now in its sixth generation. GTI posted December results of 1,198 units, representing a 75.9 percent increase over December 2008. The CC and GTI exemplify what the Volkswagen Brand is all about -- affordable, fun-to-drive, and stylish German engineering.

Volkswagen sold 213,454 total units for 2009, a decrease of 4.3 percent of the 223,128 units sold in 2008.

Total Jetta sales for 2009 were 108,427 total units, representing an 11.3 percent increase over 2008. Validating the consumer shift to more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles, Volkswagen's line of clean diesel TDI models achieved strong sales results in 2009. Combined the Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Golf and Touareg TDI's sold 41,278 total units in 2009, representing approximately 20 percent of total sales.

"December's performance was encouraging, as was the six consecutive months of sales growth that we have experienced. During those six months, Volkswagen sales increased 8.2 percent over the same period of last year," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "2009 proved to be another extremely challenging year for the Automotive Industry. We are encouraged by the fact that we were able to continue to grow our market share throughout 2009 despite the extremely challenging market conditions," added Barnes.

Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Eos, Golf, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg 2 and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced December sales of 33,797, up more than 40 percent versus December 2008. For the full year, Hyundai reported 435,064 sales, up eight percent over the prior year total. Car of the Year Genesis set the tone for the month, recording an all-time, any-time, sales record in December.

"Our ability to outperform the general market, realize retail market share increases every single month during 2009, and achieve what we believe to be the biggest market share gain in the industry was a real feat during these difficult market conditions," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of national sales.

"We are looking forward to 2010 and have reason to be optimistic," added Zuchowski. "Led by our strongest product lineup ever, highlighted by the all-new Tucson and all-new Sonata -- and more great products in the pipeline -- the ranking by the EPA as the most fuel-efficient car company in America, and the enhanced Hyundai Assurance program, it's clear that we're already off to a great start in 2010."

For details about Hyundai Assurance please visit www.hyundaiusa.com. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 790 dealerships nationwide.

"The TL performance luxury sedan is gaining traction in the marketplace thanks to the availability of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive and an all-new 6-speed manual transmission model," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "The TL has long been Acura's best selling sedan and December sales proved that the TL offers a great combination of performance, luxury, innovation and safety."December marked the launch of Acura's all-new ZDX four-door sports coupe that began hitting dealerships mid month. While production slowly ramped up in December, 79 ZDX were sold in just a few days of sales. The MDX luxury SUV again led Acura light truck sales with 2,899 units (down 20.4 percent*), followed by RDX sales of 1,283 (up 4.4 percent*). Total Acura light truck sales tallied 4,261 for December (down 12.5 percent) while Acura car sales totaled 6,314 (down 4.8 percent).

DETROIT, Jan 5. /PRNewswire/ -- GM dealers in the U.S. reported 160,996 retail deliveries in December - a 7 percent increase compared to last year, and a 50 percent increase over last month. Retail sales of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands were 146,419 - up 13 percent for the month. In total, GM dealers in the U.S. delivered 208,511 vehicles in December. This represents a total sales decline of 6 percent from the previous year, driven primarily by declines in fleet sales (33 percent) and in sales of non-core brands (55 percent).

"The fact that our retail market share has increased two full points from the third to fourth quarters demonstrates that we are strengthening our brands," said Susan Docherty, GM vice president, U.S. Sales. "We are delivering a healthier sales mix and earning consumer confidence through our launch vehicles such as Chevy Equinox and Camaro, Buick LaCrosse, GMC Terrain and Cadillac SRX."

In 2009, GM dealers delivered 2,084,492 vehicles, down 30 percent compared with 2008. "The year-over-year comparison reflects a 38 percent reduction in fleet, reduced overall incentive spending and the orderly wind-down of the Pontiac and Saturn brands," Docherty said. "Our sell-down of Pontiac and Saturn inventory is 10 months ahead of schedule and we only have about 1,700 vehicles left - 800 Pontiacs and 900 Saturns. This shows real progress in our action plans."

Other December Key Facts: -- Retail sales of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands were 13 percent higher than in 2008 - achieved with 47 percent less inventory than last year -- Chevrolet retail sales were up 14 percent - driven by strong sales of Camaro (7,518 sales - segment leader for fifth straight month),Traverse (up 92 percent), Malibu (up 34 percent) and Equinox (up 137 percent) -- Buick retail sales were up 32 percent compared with a year ago on the continued strength of LaCrosse (up 370 percent) and Enclave (up 37 percent) -- GMC retail sales were up 4 percent vs. December 2008 on strong Acadia sales (up 49 percent) and Terrain (up 197 percent vs. the vehicle it replaced, Pontiac Torrent) -- Cadillac retail sales were up 7 percent, led by the 2010 SRX, with sales 357 percent higher than a year ago (4,880 vs. 1,069) -- December month-end dealer inventory of 385,000 - the lowest year-end level on record -- Total GM crossover retail sales were up 67 percent

"The year 2009 was a watershed year for us in many ways. From our dealer restructuring to our focus on Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC, we have made the difficult but necessary decisions to position our new company for success," Docherty added. "We're looking forward to 2010 as a year when the economy continues a modest recovery, industry sales begin to improve and our outstanding new products build additional sales momentum."

"Americans have given our cars, crossovers and trucks a strong vote of confidence, and we take that very seriously," Docherty said. "We've listened to those who've returned their vehicles to help us continue designing and building products our customers deserve."

More than 419,000 vehicles have been sold during the campaign and results show that almost all customers chose to keep their vehicles. Just 310 customers have returned their vehicles - approximately 0.007 percent of all eligible vehicles sold.

Other Brands Sold 14,687 Total Vehicles in December

GM's wind-down of non-core brands has been orderly and is now 10 months ahead of schedule. These brands represented 9 percent of retail sales in December, compared with 15 percent in May 2009. Inventories for the combined brands totaled 5,123 units at December month-end, representing a 95 percent decrease compared to the end of May 2009 (112,141 units).

"Increasingly, we are seeing signs of a global economic recovery," said Mike DiGiovanni, executive director, Global Market and Industry Analysis. "In the U.S., with firm used car prices, low interest rates and an improving economic outlook we expect industry sales to improve after a dismal 2009 performance."

U.S. Economy -- Overall, economic leading indicators point to a continuing recovery in 2010, although risks remain. -- Job losses slowed significantly in November, and the unemployment rate dropped from 10.2% to 10%. However, this is still high by historical standards. -- Although consumer confidence improved in December to the second highest level in 2009, it is likely to stay tepid due to the high unemployment rate. -- Housing market is mixed. Although existing home sales are surging, new home sales and home prices have softened recently. -- Manufacturing sector continues to expand due to depleted inventory and better than expected holiday sales.

U. S. Auto Industry -- The U.S. December 2009 SAAR is estimated to be approximately the same as November - 11.0 to 11.2 million (total industry estimate) - resulting in total vehicle sales of 10.6 million for the entire 2009 CY, the lowest since 1982. -- Based on the strengthening U.S. economy, 2010 CY sales are projected to rise to between 11.0 to 12.0 million.

About General Motors: General Motors, one of the world's largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 209,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

General Motors dealers in the United States reported the following deliveries:

* Twenty-eight selling days (S/D) for the December period this year and twenty-six for last year. ------------------------------------------------------------------- **Effective August 2007, GM includes GMC & Chevrolet dealer deliveries of commercial vehicles distributed by American Isuzu Motors, Inc. ---------------------------------------------------------------

Accord monthly sales increased 17.3 percent for December to 28,238. Monthly Civic sales increased by 19.8 percent to 22,319. The CR-V, the country's best-selling SUV in 2008 and 2009, increased sales by 24.5 percent to 18,686 for a new December sales record. Additional models with monthly sales gains included the Pilot, up 26.6 percent to 9,184, and the Odyssey, up 19.8 percent to 8,966.

"The good news is that the market appears to be stabilizing and we have more reasons for optimism in 2010," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel; let's hope it's not another train coming, but rather, brighter days ahead."

The Acura Division's year-end sales totaled 105,723, down 26.8 percent. December Acura sales totaled 10,575, down 8.1 percent. The TL led the division with annual sales of 33,620, followed closely by the MDX with sales of 31,178.

December TSX sales increased 17.9 percent to 2,926. December RDX sales increased 4.4 percent to 1,283. The much-anticipated Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe made its sales debut in the second half of the month.

*The annual Daily Selling Rate (DSR) is calculated with 308 days for 2009 and 2008. December 2009 included 28 selling days versus 26 selling days for 2008. All percentages represent DSR.

For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda and Acura vehicles, please visit Hondanews.com for Honda and Acuranews.com for Acura. Consumer information is available at Honda.com for Honda and Acura.com for Acura.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported December 2009 sales of 18,255, up 1.6 percent versus December 2008, and the strongest single month of the last four. Full-year 2009 sales were 207,767, down 21.3 percent. There were 28 selling days in December 2009 compared to 26 in 2008, and 310 selling days in both 2008 and 2009.

"Going in, we knew 2009 was going to be an extremely difficult year, and it lived up to its early billing all the way to the end," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "We reduced our fleet sales all year long to focus on long-term brand strength, residual values and profitability. With December coming in higher than last year, optimism is strong for a brighter 2010."

The all-new 2010 MAZDA3 reported a sales increase in December of 1.5 percent with 7,981 units sold, and represented nearly half of all Mazdas sold in the U.S. during 2009. Mazda's crossover SUVs showed strong sales in December, with CX-7 reporting a sales increase of 120.5 percent for the month with 2,578 vehicles sold, while CX-9 reported sales of 2,637 units, an increase of 25.4 percent.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best sales month ever. The company sold 3,115 vehicles, up 15 percent versus last December. December also marks the first month MMdM has reported sales of more than 3,000 units. For 2009, MMdM reported 18,914 total sales, accounting for a 14 percent decrease versus 2008. The all-new MAZDA3 and the CX-9 each recorded their best-ever sales months in December.

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced December sales of 21,048 units, a 43.7-percent increase over the same month last year, and total 2009 sales of 300,063 units, a 9.8-percent increase over the same period last year. Kia small cars, including Rio, Forte, Forte Koup and Soul led the way in monthly sales volume.

"In the midst of our largest commitment to the U.S. market ever, we have once again prevailed against difficult economic times and a down automotive industry by increasing our market share for the 15th consecutive year," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. "Our new and appealing design evolution paired with our core principles of quality, safety, value and technology will continue to boost our brand into the next decade."

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built(1) at the company's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, will further enhance the lineup and is now arriving in dealerships.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site - www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com

For calendar year 2009, combined Nissan and Infiniti sales totaled 770,103 vehicles, compared with 951,350 vehicles sold in 2008, a 19.1 percent decline.

"The industry is coming out of a very tough year; it's good to see 2009 behind us," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "Despite the huge challenges and uncertainties of last year, combined Nissan and Infiniti market share set a record in 2009. And looking ahead, we're encouraged by some signs of economic improvement. Showroom traffic is building and consumer confidence is rising.

"For Nissan and Infiniti, fiscal year 2010 promises to be one of our most-active, new-vehicle launch years in recent history as we introduce eight new vehicles in the U.S. market, including the Nissan LEAF battery-electric car," Carolin said. "We're anticipating great receptions for all of our vehicles."

NNA INFORMATION -- Combined Nissan and Infiniti sales of 73,404 units in December 2009 were 18.2 percent higher than December sales a year before of 62,101 units. -- To ensure consistency in global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days. December had 28 selling days, compared with 26 selling days in December a year before.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS -- Nissan Division posted sales of 64,296 units in December compared with 53,829 units sold in December 2008, a 19.4 percent increase. -- Nissan Versa sales in December set a record for the month at 6,809 units, a 32.5 percent increase over December 2008 sales. -- Other Nissan models with double-digit, year-over-year sales increases in December were Maxima (59.5 percent), Z (63 percent), Frontier (113.1 percent), Xterra (14.9 percent), Pathfinder (49.2 percent) and Armada (75.8 percent). -- For calendar year 2009, Rogue set a record of 77,222 sales, a 7.2 percent increase over 2008, and sales of Maxima and Z saw increases of 13.3 percent and 26.9 percent, respectively, compared with calendar year 2008 sales.

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS -- Infiniti sales for December 2009 were 9,108 units, up 10.1 percent from the 8,272 units sold in the same month a year earlier. -- Infiniti EX sales set a December record with 901 units sold, a 2.7 percent increase over the 877 units sold in December 2008. -- December sales of the Infiniti QX56 full-size luxury sport-utility vehicle rose 205.4 percent to 1,136 vehicles compared with December 2008 sales of 372 units. -- Sales of the G37 Coupe totaled 1,626 units in December, a 54.4 percent increase over the same month in 2008, and FX sales were up 29.4 percent, to 1,096 units, compared with December 2008 sales of 847 vehicles.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com and http://www.nissandriven.com/www.infinitiusa.com.